Since it is a potential space, the hepatorenal recess is not normally filled with fluid.
However, this space becomes significant in conditions in which fluid collects within the abdomen (most commonly ascites and hemoperitoneum).
The intraperitoneal fluid, be it blood, ascites, or dialysate, collects in this space and may be visualized, most commonly via ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scanning.
As little as 30 or 40 ml of fluid in the abdominal cavity may be visualized in this space.
Early visualization of fluid in the hepatorenal recess on FAST scan may be an indication for urgent laparotomy.